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Congress unveils bill to avert Friday government shutdown with over $100B in disaster aid

Congressional leaders have come together to unveil their plan to avoid a partial government shutdown as the Friday federal funding deadline looms. House Republicans have released a massive 1,547-page text outlining a short-term extension of fiscal year (FY) 2024 government funding levels. This extension is designed to give lawmakers more time to come to an agreement on funding for the remainder of FY 2025.

This latest extension marks the second continuing resolution (CR) since FY 2024 came to an end on September 30. The bill, if passed, will extend FY 2024 government funding levels through March 14. In addition to maintaining funding levels, the bill includes over $100 billion in funding for disaster relief in the wake of storms Helene and Milton that ravaged the U.S. Southeast. There is also $10 billion earmarked for economic assistance for farmers.

The legislation also addresses key healthcare provisions aimed at reducing the influence of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). It also includes measures to revitalize Washington, DC’s RFK Stadium and the surrounding area. Furthermore, the bill includes outbound investment legislation to curb the flow of U.S. dollars benefiting Chinese military and technology firms overseas.

Recent concerns over drone activity on the Eastern Seaboard have prompted negotiators to include a reauthorization and extension of the government’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems program. To offset some of the funding, the bill will allow the Treasury to recoup funds spent on rebuilding the Baltimore Key Bridge.

In order to avoid a partial government shutdown, the bill must pass through the GOP-controlled House and the Democrat-controlled Senate by Friday and reach President Biden’s desk by midnight that day.

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However, there has been some pushback from GOP hardliners who are critical of Speaker Mike Johnson for including what they see as unrelated policy riders in the bill. Some lawmakers are frustrated with the lack of transparency surrounding the bill, with Rep. Eric Burlison calling it “disgusting” to expect a vote on a several-thousand-page bill that no one has had a chance to read or debate.

Despite the challenges, leaders are working to reach a consensus and avoid a government shutdown. The bill is a crucial piece of legislation that will have a significant impact on government operations and funding. As negotiations continue, lawmakers are focused on finding common ground and ensuring that vital government services continue uninterrupted.

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